Tuesday, 6th January 2009

News Archive

- Richard Whitehead – Burton Mail

30th August 1985
The quick fire transfer deal that took Phil Gee from Gresley Rovers to Derby County this week must have left a few people connected with the South Derbyshire club rubbing their eyes in disbelief.

Just over a week after taking part in the eight goal FA Cup savaging of Friar Lane Old Boys, Gee is likely to be pulling on a Rams shirt tomorrow probably in the Midland Intermediate League fixture.

The deal has obviously provided a considerable boost to the Rovers’ coffers – and is quite a feather in the cap of manager Frank Northwood.

But the speed with which Derby County acted has surprised everyone.

After all Gee has only played just five games for the Moatmen and while his performances has been a revelation , it’s more usual for Football League clubs to take a much longer look before stepping in with a cash bid.

Even so the move represents a considerable gamble on a player who was plucked from Sunday soccer by Northwood after a tip off from Burton Albion’s Steve Essex.

While Gresley will be sorry to lose a player who has made such a big impact in their stunning start to the new season they have massive financial consolation and the thought that replacing him may not be too much of a problem.

Brian Beresford has still to recover from injury enough to command a regular place and Ian Staley, so impressive in the pre-season games, is also waiting in the wings.

Add to this the impending return of the gifted Dave Wintersgill and the picture looks rosy for Northwood.

Northwood himself can afford to bask in the glory of such a smart piece of business.

Since his arrival at the Moat Ground his capacity of digging up players of vast talent from unlikely sources has amazed local soccer followers.

Recently the club recognised his prowess by giving him the title of manager rather than the role of joint-manager, which he has held since joining the club.

This means that Roger Davies – who brought him to the club in the first place – will now be assistant manager with special responsibility for coaching.

Click here for a printer friendly version

Discuss this story on the Fans Forum.

No Joy At Stamford

Happy New Year

Stamford Pre-Match News

At home to:
Rushall Olympic

Saturday 10th January, 3.00pm

View previous encounters with Rushall Olympic

SPREAD THE WORD!

Download a poster to promote the next home game and stick it up at work or in the pub!